Sneak Pique! 2024 Liv Pique advanced revealed

Liv have just launched the new Pique Advanced 29 series, their 3rd generation of full-suspension bikes designed for XC use. Being optimised for for race-minded cross-country riders, The Liv Pique Advanced series is home on both technical and flat out fast terrain, and Liv state that the design blends efficiency and control. For 2024, the key updates include reduced weight, better stiffness, updated geometry, and the introduction of a flex stay which Liv call FlexPoint Pro Suspension Technology.

“It's an exciting new era in XC racing as courses get more technical and riders are stepping up to meet the challenge. Liv is at the forefront of supporting this shift," said Ludi Scholz, Liv's Global Off-road & Gravel Category Manager. "The Pique Advanced 29 represents our commitment to every woman who is pushing her limits in racing, from local events to the World Cup stage. We're here not just to keep pace, but to inspire and equip the next generation of women riders to conquer these demanding courses and make their own impact in the sport.”

A closer look at the Liv Pique Advanced

Liv have shaved a full 297g from the previous generation Pique Advanced frame by bumping up the quality of the carbon fibre used in laying up the frame. This means a small fraame is 1468g!. To go with this, Liv Engineers refined the tube to meet the strength targets needed while using less material. With an overall change in stature to a wider, squarer tube shape the Liv Pique Advanced frame has also had a 6% increase in torsional stiffness (think, steering) and a 10% bump up in pedalling stiffness. This is a boon for those trying to make gains between the tape.

The suspension lay out has changed, moving from the previous generation's Maestro Suspension Technology to the new, more efficient and lighter weight FlexPoint Pro Suspension Technology.

This new suspension technology is based around a patented, linkage-driven, single pivot design. Liv state that this system 'effectively isolates forces, leading to improved control and increased traction.' So we can assume that means it has better pedal response and potentially better support under braking forces as well.

The Liv Pique Advanced frame delivers 115mm rear-wheel travel paired with 120mm travel forks, along with a slacker head tube angle (67 degrees) for better comppsure on technical descents. That increased scope of the bike has been a driving factor for the new Pique Advanced. XC is changing and the bikes must do the same. Liv have also moved to a steepr seat tube angle at 76 degrees, which helps keep the rider centred when climbing for more control over the front wheel – plus it is easier to pop off the back when the seat is dropped on descents.

The reach is longer across all four sizes, with matched 435mm stays on each size from small through to large. The frame also has clearance for the current 29×2.4" tyre standard.

We like that Liv have a second mount under the top tube – this c an be used as an accessory mount, or for a second water bottle cage.

Things we like about the Liv Pique Advanced

1. It's not a game of pink and shrink. The frames are different to the Giant Anthem 29 range – although many elements are the same. You'll find the Liv frames are shorter which should result in a more centred fit.

2. You can fit two water bottles in the frame. This is a big deal for everyone, but it isn't something every manufacturer provides. Two bottles is nearly essential for most marathons and stage races, and it makes a big difference to staying hydrated on almost any ride. There are some great backpacks for riding, but not having to use one is even better.

3. The headset is for bearings. There's no cable outer our brake hose going through the headset, and better yet, the hoses enter the frame behind the head tube, making for a neater arch that doesn't impede steering. It also makes packing a bike to go to events easier with more room to move bars. Winning! Having a brake hose through your headset bearing ends up costing the bike owner a lot more in labour for what should be easy maintenance. Kudos for not adding this, Liv.

4. There are proper top end builds. No messing around, the Liv Pique Advanced 0 is ready to rip – but the two lower models use the same frame and both have very capable build kits as well.

Liv Pique Advanced in Australia

Here in Australia we have all three models across the 4 sizes – and they should be available in Liv dealers right now.

Pique Advanced 29 0 – $13,999 RRP

The top model is as you'd expect – it comes with a top spec! SRAM's XX Eagle T-type drivetrain, including a powermeter with crnak lengths from 165-175mm depending on the bike size. Brakes com from Shimano's XTR Race line up for feather weight stopping power.

The wheels are Zipp's 1 Zero Hitop, a low-profile, 30mm internal carbon wheel set that adds stability to modern mountain bike tyres (2.4" Maxxis Aspen, in this case) while still providing a damped ride for greater traction. Throw in a Fox Factory 34 SC 120mm fork with dual remote lock out to the Fox Factory SL rear shock and the Fox Transfer dropper and this bike is race ready!

Pique Advanced 29 1 – $9,499 RRP

This model has the same frame as the headliner Pique Advanced 29 0, but moves to a Fox Performance Elite 34 SC and Float SL fork and shock. These items have all the same adjustments, just a black finish instead of Kashima. Giant also put their own Contact Switch AT dropper post in, trading out the Fox Transfer of the top model.

Got it in black?

In terms of drivetrain, the Pique Advanced 29 1 keeps the SRAM AXS T-type shifting with a SRAM GX group set, however an XO crnakset means a powermeter is still included, which is a great deal at the $9499 sticker price. Braking is taken care of with Shimano XT brakes, and the Giant XCR carbon wheels with Maxxis Aspen tyres keep you rolling.

Pique Advanced 29 3 – $6,299 RRP

Dropping to less than half the price of the top Pique Advanced 29 0 – what changes? Well, you still get the same frame. Same carbon quality, same geometry – nothing changes. The suspension changes to a RockShox SID fork and Fox Float SL Performance shock – a few changes but mostly in the fine tuning you can do. There's also no remote lock out, which is much neater for those who aren't really looking to be elbows out at every opportunity. For those riders racing and riding for the experience, and not so much for pool room trophies, this is a good choice.

The Liv Pique Advanced 3 rocks a Shimano Deore 12-speed group set, but still keeps some sweet Giant carbon wheels and Maxxis Aspen tyres for a lively ride – accentuated with Giant's Contact Switch AT dropper post.  

We haven't seen one of these in the flesh yet, but we hear Peta Mullens will be racing hers at home and abroad this year. Drop in to your local Liv dealer to find out more.